Senate Panel OKs School Security Bill

Senate Panel OKs School Security Bill

A proposal that would allow school districts to hire individuals with prior law enforcement experience to handle security is headed for a full Senate vote.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - A proposal that would allow school districts to hire individuals with prior law enforcement experience to handle security is headed for a full Senate vote.

The measure sponsored by Republican Sen. Frank Niceley of Strawberry Plains passed the Senate Finance Committee 6-2 on Monday. The companion bill is set to be heard on the House floor on Tuesday.

The proposal would allow schools to hire retired law enforcement officers after they meet certain requirements, such as completing a 40-hour school security course. Police officers are typically required to have about 400 hours of training.

Gov. Bill Haslam has included $34 million in his budget for local government officials to use on their priorities, which could include security measures.

A representative from the governor's office has said Haslam is OK with the legislation.

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